Health Officials Urge Radon Testing

Jackson Hole

 

Teton County Promotes Radon Testing During National Radon Action Month

January Reminder to Check Indoor Air Quality

Radon Risks and Importance of Testing

January is National Radon Action Month, and the Teton County Health Department is reminding residents to test residences, offices, or rentals for radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally occurs from the breakdown of uranium in rocks, soil, and groundwater. It enters homes and buildings from the soil beneath and can build up to high levels indoors. When breathed, radioactive decay products damage lung tissue, increasing lung cancer risk—the second leading cause in the country, per the Surgeon General.

Any building can have a radon problem, regardless of age or construction. Teton County is designated a Zone 1 Radon Area with predicted average indoor levels above the EPA’s 4 pCi/L threshold. Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, so testing is the only detection method. If elevated, consult certified professionals for mitigation.

How to Get Test Kits

Short-term radon test kits are available for $10 at the Teton County Health Department, 460 East Pearl Avenue in Jackson. Visit the office Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. For more information, call the Environmental Health Division at (307) 732-8490. Visit www.epa.gov/radon for EPA resources.

Additional Health and Safety Resources

Testing is recommended if never done or several years since last. For broader environmental concerns, see Jackson Addresses EPA Water Line Inventory.

 

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